CLASSROOM REFLECTION

Flagship Reflection

Cassie Arndt, Glendive, Class of 2026

So many miles were traveled by most of my classmates as we gathered for Session 6 in Sidney, Montana. As we entered the room, it buzzed with last month’s updates and everything in between, a sound I didn’t realize I had missed so deeply. It was a truly sweet moment to be back together.

We began our day focused on coalition building, creating space for our class to dive into meaningful conversation about complex topics and how, in theory, we might change the world. Shortly after, we were fortunate to hear from a local community panel that shared honest stories of building, striving, failing, and succeeding in coalitions. Their experiences brought a deeper understanding of how collaborative efforts have shaped Eastern Montana in tangible ways.

Our tour of Kraken Resources left many of us in awe, and perhaps a bit bewildered, as we navigated what an innovative partnership of resources can look like. Seeing waste energy used in such a unique and practical way challenged our thinking and expanded our view of what sustainability can mean. That evening, we gathered at the MonDak Heritage Center, where the setting itself was impressive. The Executive Director, whose passion for Sidney’s history was unmistakable, delivered an engaging presentation on the origins and growth of the “Sunrise Town.”

After a morning of yoga for some, and a little extra snoozing for others, we carpooled to Poplar, Montana, to spend time at Fort Peck Community College. We anticipated diving deeply into “State of the World” conversations, but the dialogue unfolded differently than expected. While there were many thoughts about why our discussion didn’t reach the depth we had imagined, calling it a waste would be inaccurate. Instead, it reflected our ongoing commitment to curiosity, listening, and finding com

mon ground.

Hearing directly from leaders within that community offered insights we simply didn’t have before. Understanding their challenges, strengths, and experiences allowed us to step into their shoes and better grasp how, as fellow Montanans, we can help share the message they want others to truly understand. As the day ended, I can only imagine the carpool conversations were filled with rich ideas, thoughtful questions, and, because this class is who it is, plenty of laughter.

Our final day brought us back to coalition work, but it ended with my favorite part: classmate conversations. I didn’t fully realize how much this component of the program would shape me, growing my curiosity, expanding my empathy, and deepening my appreciation for shared experiences. Every class may feel this way, but the Class of 2026 truly is something special. Through trials, tribulations, and triumphs, this group of leaders is beyond awesome. Entering our final session in May feels bittersweet.